Bungie on cross-platform development -- "The perks outweigh the pain"

After developing only for Microsoft platforms for years with the Halo series, Bungie Studios is releasing shared-world shooter Destiny not only for Microsoft and Sony platforms, but also across console generations.

Asked in the latest Bungie Mail Sack about this process, the studio said development of this nature is no easy task, but is ultimately worth it because it means more gamers can experience a Bungie-developed game.

"We get to invite more people to explore those worlds! Our community can welcome new players who may have never experienced a Bungie game before," the developer said. "Developing a cross-platform game is hard, but the perks outweigh the pain."

Also in the feature, Bungie reiterated that Destiny will be a game that appeals to "busy" people, like those with family and full-time job responsibilities and may only have a few hours per week to spend on video games.

"Destiny will be a game that you can fit into your life. It won’t be a chore or a grind. We’re creating an adventure that will be fun. We’re building a world you can visit when it suits you," Bungie said. "You won’t have to worry about being left behind if you don’t clock in on a daily basis. Every Guardian who answers the call to defend the last safe city will get out of their experience what they put into it."

Destiny launches in 2014 for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Xbox One, and PlayStation 4. Bungie COO Pete Parsons recently said that the game has the potential to surpass the impact of Halo and sit on people's shelves next to franchises like Harry Potter, Star Wars, and Lord of the Rings.

For more, check out GameSpot's interview with community manager Eric Osborne below.